Moko Jumbie

Moko Jumbie, a 2017 film directed by Vashti Anderson and featuring actors Anthony Blackburn, Keston Dick, and Vanna Girod, dives deep into the rich cultural tapestry of Trinidad and Tobago to deliver an enthralling narrative centered on contemporary romance, ancestral spirits, and cultural identity.

The plot revolves around Asha, a British teenager of East Indian descent who journeys to her ancestral homeland of Trinidad to reconnect with her roots during the summer holidays. Asha is played with a charm and naive curiosity by Vanna Girod, who brilliantly captures the essence of a young woman wrestling between her embedded Western influences and instinctual draw towards her Trinidadian ancestry.

The movie opens up a world of familial secrets, taboos, and internal and external conflicts as Asha engages with the magical realist world of Trinidad. She is taken aback by the mesh of cultures, customs, and religious beliefs, all set against the backdrop of calypso rhythms, Caribbean mysticism, and the vibrant multicultural society of Trinidad. The movie's title 'Moko Jumbie' refers to the traditional stilt-walker figure in Trinidadian folklore, a protector from harmful spirits and negativity. The theme of spiritual guardianship resonates in the storyline as we navigate through Asha's tumultuous journey of self-discovery.

Girod's portrayal of Asha cleverly balances the teenage curiosity and depth required for such a character. Likewise, Keston Dick, who plays Roger, a charming local boy from a marginalized Afro-Trinidadian community, perfectly embodies the essential attributes of his character, bringing depth to this poignant story. While Asha is drawn towards Roger, their affection is not without its obstacles. The romance is overshadowed by an undercurrent of strained relations between their ethnic communities, which creates a conflict that delves deeper than a simple love story. The budding relationship serves as a symbolic bridge between the Indian and African communities in Trinidad and is a significant catalyst behind much of the film's drama.

Adding to the turmoil is Anthony Blackburn, who performs the role of Asha's stoic father. He portrays the character with a blend of misunderstood rationality and underlying emotional turmoil, which further entangles the narrative, making it a gripping watch.

What sets Moko Jumbie apart from other films of its genre is its thematic depth. It is not just a love story, but rather an exploration of identity, history, and how the past shapes the present. It captivates audiences with its stunning visuals, authentic characters and a hauntingly beautiful story, interspersed with moments of folklore, history, and family secrets.

Anderson, a native of Trinidad, employs her intimate knowledge of the local culture, landscape, and traditions to infuse authenticity into the movie. Beautifully shot scenes of Trinidad's lush forests, vivid carnivals, and unadulterated coastal beauty provide mesmerizing backdrops to the story. Coupled with compelling performances from the cast, timely musings on institutional racism, charming moments of humor and romance, and narrative unpredictability, Moko Jumbie emerges as a unique addition to contemporary world cinema.

The film also imparts an understanding of the Trinidadian folkloric spirits known as jumbies, giving international audiences an intriguing insight into Caribbean culture. These jumbies are not only manifested in their traditional form but are also embodied in the unresolved issues from Asha's family's past and the persistent socioeconomic disparities that pervade the island.

Moko Jumbie is much more than a movie; it's an experience steeped in the poetic charm of West Indian culture, folklore, and history. It uses its creative narrative to stimulate conversations about deeply rooted prejudices and social divisions. Furthermore, the film strikes a delicate balance between delivering an engaging plot and showcasing Trinidad's cultural and natural beauty.

In conclusion, Moko Jumbie is a culturally rich, romantically intense, and emotionally captivating exploration into the heart of Trinidadian society and folklore, leaving an indelible impression that lingers long after the final scene. With its distinct blend of love, drama, spiritual intrigue, and societal conflict, Moko Jumbie holds a mirror to the multicultural experience of Trinidad and Tobago, making it a must-watch for those intrigued by Caribbean culture.